Carnegie Science Center

The 4-floor Carnegie Science Center features permanent and rotating exhibits suited to both kids and adults. The Buhl Planetarium & Observatory, the Rangos Giant Cinema, and the Live Demonstration Theater provide additional sensory ways to engage with the complex. There are also Pittsburgh-specific installations like a replica of the city in the Miniature Railroad & Village and the H2Oh! exhibit about the city’s Three Rivers.

• The fourth floor is especially kid-friendly, with exhibits such as Bricksburgh and the Little Learner Clubhouse.
• Paid parking is available at a discount for Science Center guests; though if you plan on seeing multiple attractions outside of the Science Center, you’ll need to pay the standard rate.
• Planetarium shows are included in general admission, but laser shows and movies need a separate ticket.
• There are accessible features for guests with mobility issues, limited vision, hearing difficulties, and sensory sensitivities.
• Paid rental lockers are available on the first floor—a convenient resource for parents and those exploring the area without a private car.

The Carnegie Science Center is in downtown Pittsburgh on the banks of the Ohio River at 1 Allegheny Avenue. Sitting between Rivers Casino and Acrisure Stadium, it’s easily accessible via car from most areas of the city, and paid parking is available throughout the area. Cyclists and walkers can get to the Science Center via the Three Rivers Heritage Trail, while commuters can take the T-Plus to Allegheny Station adjacent to the complex.

Carnegie Science Center sees its highest rate of visitors on the weekends. Weekdays have smaller crowds, though field trips may be taking place during the school year. It’s important to note that the surrounding area, including the Science Center parking lot, sees an increase in crowds during events at PNC Park and Acrisure Stadium.

General tickets to the Carnegie Science Center include admission to the Highmark SportsWorks permanent interactive exhibit. This all-ages experience has three themed areas, including the “Sports Challenge,” where kids can test their baseball bat swinging speed, their reaction time as a hockey goalie, and their speed compared to Olympic track stars.